Islamabad (HRNW) – The Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) has suspended the broadcast license of Geo News for 15 days, citing alleged violations of media regulations during the transmission of a religious program aired on 10 Muharram (26 June 2026).
According to a notice issued by PEMRA, the action relates to the program “Safar-e-Ishq,” in which the regulator alleged that “unacceptable religious depiction and visual representation” was broadcast.
PEMRA stated that the content was not only in violation of the terms and conditions of the broadcaster’s license but was also contrary to the country’s religious, social, and cultural values. The authority said the broadcast allegedly violated multiple provisions of the PEMRA Ordinance, Rules, and Code of Conduct and had the potential to hurt religious sentiments.
The regulator further stated that Geo News had a responsibility to exercise due caution while airing religious programming and to ensure effective oversight through its internal editorial review mechanisms, which PEMRA said the broadcaster failed to do.
As a result, PEMRA ordered the immediate suspension of Geo News’ broadcasting license for 15 days. The suspension applies to satellite transmission and all broadcast distribution networks, and all distributors and cable operators have been directed to implement the order without delay.
PEMRA also announced that its Complaints Council will conduct further proceedings in the matter and may recommend additional regulatory action based on its findings.
In addition, the authority directed Geo News to conduct an internal inquiry into the incident and to implement measures to prevent similar violations in the future.
Geo News has not publicly responded to the suspension order in the information available at the time of publication.
Important Note
This report is based on an official notice issued by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA). The allegations and regulatory findings presented reflect PEMRA’s stated position. Any response or appeal by Geo News should be considered as part of the ongoing regulatory process.
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